What does a Fire Investigator do?
Published 3 min read
A fire investigator is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires. They collect evidence, interview witnesses, and review building plans to determine the point of origin and how the fire spread. Fire investigators also work with insurance companies to determine the cause of fires for insurance purposes.
Fire Investigator job duties include:
- Investigate the origin and cause of fires
- Determine whether a fire is accidental, incendiary, or natural
- Collect evidence at fire scenes
- Interview witnesses
- Prepare detailed reports
- Present findings to law enforcement, insurance companies, and attorneys
- Testify in court as an expert witness
- Work with fire prevention officials to develop fire safety programs
- Inspect buildings for fire code violations
- Investigate explosions
Fire Investigator Job Requirements
Most fire investigators have at least a high school diploma, although some have a college degree in fire science or a related field. Many agencies require certification as a Fire Investigator through the National Association of Fire Investigators or a similar organization. Experience as a firefighter or law enforcement officer is often helpful in becoming a fire investigator.
Fire Investigator Skills
- Fire
- Investigation
- Arson
- Evidence
- Fire Science
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Engineering
- Computer Science
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How to become a Fire Investigator
A fire investigator is an individual who is responsible for determining the origin and cause of fires. A fire investigator must have a keen understanding of fire behavior, as well as an investigative mind.
There are a few steps that one must take in order to become a fire investigator. Firstly, it is important to obtain a degree in fire science or a related field. Secondly, one must gain experience working with fire departments or in the insurance industry. Finally, it is recommended that one becomes certified through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Once you have obtained the necessary education and experience, you will be able to begin working as a fire investigator. Your job will be to determine the origin and cause of fires. In order to do this, you will need to have a keen understanding of fire behavior. You will also need to be able to interview witnesses and gather evidence. Once you have collected all of the evidence, you will need to analyze it in order to reach a conclusion about the fire’s origin and cause.
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